The next six to 10 months is going to be a busy time for the local arm of Chinese manufacturer GWM. The company plans to launch a host of new vehicles, some of which will be on display at the upcoming Johannesburg International Motor Show.
There will be no fewer than 13 models on the GWM stand (hall 7). This includes the impressive C20R (read a road test in the November issue of CAR, on sale 21 October), the Steed 5 and the updated H5.
Show-goers will also be able to get a taste of what to expect within the coming months.
M4
GWM will showcase its M4 compact crossover. Under the bonnet is is GWM’s 1,5-litre, four-cylinder VVT unit that has a maximum output of 77 kW and 138 N.m of torque. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, power steering, rear PDC, Bluetooth connectivity and an MP3 and USB-compatible audio system. Safety is taken care of in the form of dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and rear-mounted Isofix child seat anchorages.
C50
The upcoming C50 sedan is a new C-segment contender for the Chinese marque and will introduce a new GWM engine to the local market. The GW4G15T 1,5-litre turbocharged unit delivers 98 kW at 5 600 r/min and 188 N.m between 2 000 and 4 500 r/min.
GWM claims that with a wheelbase of 2 700 r/min, the C50 boasts “passenger space that rivals that on offer from the segment leaders” as well as ample rear legroom and generous boot space. Two trim levels will be offered locally, but standard features across the range include air-conditioning, power steering, electric windows and mirrors and entertainment systems.
C30
This B-segment sedan makes use of the same 77 kW 1,5-litre engine that does duty in the aforementioned M4. GWM claims a fuel consumption figure of 6,4 litres/100 km and a top speed of 170 km/h.
With a wheelbase of 2 610 mm, the C30 offers C-segment-rivalling space and a large boot of 510 dm3. This vehicle comes equipped with air-conditioning, power steering, electric windows all-round, electric mirror adjustment, radio/CD/MP3 player with USB and auxiliary support and a rake-adjustable steering wheel. For peace of mind, there are dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and Isofix child-seat mountings.
CAR will be at JIMS next week. Keep up-to-date with all the reveals by visiting CARmag.co.za and keeping an eye on our Facebook page and Twitter feed.